Your roof is a key component of your home’s building envelope, so you count on it to help protect your property and everyone and everything inside it from the weather. It usually does the job without complaint, so it’s easily overlooked. In fact, many people forget about its invaluable contribution until a problem arises. If you want to stay ahead of trouble, it pays to be proactive. That means exploring a couple of very important questions. How often should a roof be replaced? More importantly, how do you recognize when your roof might need replacement?
The Lifespans of Common Roofing Materials
How often should a roof be replaced? The obvious answer is when it reaches the end of its lifespan. Since the materials that make up your roof have a major impact on its lifespan, knowing how long they tend to last will help you know how long your roof should last. Estimates are generally provided in a range because the quality of those materials, the way that they were installed, and other factors will influence how well they typically hold up. Nationwide offers an overview:
- Asphalt shingles last 15 to 30 years
- Composition shingles last 12 to 20 years
- Wood shingles last 30 to 40 years
- Metal roofs last 40 to 70 years
- Rubber roofs last 30 to 50 years
- Clay tiles last 50 to 100 years
- Slate tiles last 75 to 200 years
Other Factors That Impact the Length of a Roof’s Life
As This Old House points out, the type of roof you have isn’t the only factor that determines its lifespan:
- Climate: If your roof is exposed to many storms or heavy sun, it will age faster. Some materials deal with this better than others, but you’ll still want to keep an eye out for damage. Make any needed repairs promptly.
- Slope: Flatter roofs are more likely to suffer from drainage issues that can lead to leaks and mold growth.
- Ventilation: Poor ventilation can cause moisture problems in the attic and increase the risk of cracked shingles and troubled roof decking.
- Color: In hotter climates, lighter shingles often fare better because they retain less heat from the sun. Therefore, they have fewer issues with solar damage like brittleness and cracking.
- Underlayment: Underlayment provides a waterproof barrier between your roofing and the home’s interior. It shields against moisture buildup.
- Workmanship: Solid workmanship ensures that your roofing system functions the way it should. A failure anywhere in the system could shorten your roof’s lifespan. Choosing a professional roofing contractor to repair, restore, or install your roof is vital.
Signs That Indicate a Roof Might Need Replacement
How often should a roof be replaced? While you may be able to get a rough idea if you know the type of roof you have, the best way to answer that question is to consider the condition of your roof. One strategy would involve reaching out to a roofing professional for an inspection. It’s also worth thinking about the signs that your roof might need replacement. Angi suggests checking for the following indicators:
- Your roof is old.
- Your shingles are curling, missing, cracking, or shedding granules.
- You visit the attic and see daylight through the roofing boards.
- You tour the attic or other areas of your home and notice signs of leaks or water damage.
- Your roof is sagging in certain areas.
- You notice places where flashing is damaged.
- Your roof is growing mold and other vegetation.
- You see that lots of your neighbors are getting new roofs.
If you’re concerned about the state of your roof, don’t wait. Reach out to the professionals at Taylor-Made Roofing. We’re fully licensed and insured and have more than 20 years of experience in providing exceptional roofing systems to homes and businesses in southwest Missouri. Whether you need a roofing inspection, a repair, or a brand-new roof, our professional team is prepared to assist you. Contact Taylor-Made Roofing today to learn more about our services.